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As more and more children use "smart" toys and other internet-connectable entertainment devices, safety and privacy concerns are being raised.

The FBI issued a warning
about toys that "contain sensors, microphones, cameras, data storage components, and other multimedia capabilities -- including speech recognition and GPS options. These features could put the privacy and safety of children at risk due to the large amount of personal information that may be unwittingly disclosed."

According to the FBI
, the toys -- depending on the functionality and features -- could possibly record a child's name, school, likes and dislikes, and activities. The FBI says exposure and/or collection of a child's (or anyone else's) personal information and location could potentially lead to identity fraud or exploitation risks.

The FBI recommends the following when it comes to using internet-connected toys:

Research for any known reported security issues online to include, but not limited to:

-- Only connect and use toys in environments with trusted and secured Wi-Fi Internet access

-- Research the toy’s internet and device connection security measures

-- Use authentication when pairing the device with Bluetooth (via PIN code or password)

-- Use encryption when transmitting data from the toy to the Wi-Fi access point and to the server or cloud

-- Provide only what is minimally required when inputting information for user accounts (e.g., some services offer additional features if birthdays or information on a child’s preferences are provided)